The Kingdom of Bhutan is a small country nestled high in the Himalayas. The only international airport is situated in the second largest town of Paro and only the national carrier Druk Air is permitted to land there. Bhutan is a special to visit for many reasons, The mountain vistas and unspoiled landscapes are stunning. The culture is unique and the people are reserved yet friendly.
Druk Air flight to Paro is one of the most spectacular of all mountain flights. Whether flying along the Himalayan range from Kathmandu or over the foothills, each flight is a mesmerizing feat and offers exciting descent into the Kingdom. On arrival at the airport, received by our representative and then transfer to Thimphu, the modern capital town of Bhutan.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast Thimphu sightseeing. Visit Trashichhoedzong, the beautiful medieval fortress/monastery which houses most of the Government's office and King's Throne room It is also the summer residence of Je Khenpo, the Chief Abbot. Then visit National Library which has vast collection of ancient Buddhist texts and manuscripts. After that drive to Arts & Crafts School, famous for traditional thangkha paintings. After lunch visit Handicrafts Emporium which displays wide assortment of beautifully hand-woven and crafted products. Then drive to Memorial Chorten, the stupa built in the memory of Bhutan's Third King who is popularly regarded as Father of modern Bhutan.
Overnight at the hotel in Thimphu
After breakfast drive to Punakha with a short stop at Dochula pass (3,080m) stopping briefly here to take in the view and admire the chorten, mani wall, and prayer flags which decorate the highest point on the road. Later visit Punakha Dzong which has played an important role in Bhutan's history. Damaged by four catastrophic fires and an earthquake, the Dzong has now been fully restored. After that drive to Wangduephodrang visiting Dzong and local market.
Overnight at the hotel in Punakha
After breakfast drive to Paro en route visit Simtokha Dzong, the oldest fortress of the Kingdom built in 1627, it now houses the School for religious studies. Afternoon in Paro visit Ta Dzong, the National Museum of the Kingdom. Afterwards, walk down a hillside trail to visit Rinpung Dzong.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro.
After breakfast drive north of Paro valley to ruins of Drukgyel Dozng. Nearby visit traditional Bhutanese Farm House which offers good insight into lifestyle of local people. Then take an excursion to Taktsang Monastery, the most famous of Bhutanese monasteries. The excursion to monastery takes about 5 hours for round trip. While return to Paro town visit en route Kyichu Lhakhang, one of the oldest and most sacred shrines of the Kingdom.
Overnight at the hotel in Paro
After breakfast drive to the airport for flight to onward destination.
Duration : 5 Nights 6 Days
Destinations covered : Druk – Thimpu - Punakha - Paro
